By Ryn Gargulinski
Fun Date Ideas in Los Angeles
is not known as the city of angels for no reason -- it's a place where you can have a heavenly time on a date. Downtown has a host of cafes, restaurants and clubs for the casual, unplanned outing, but you also can plan in advance and end up with something even more special. These include a nostalgic blast from the past, a smooth ride on a bicycle built for two or an amazing journey through time via art throughout the ages.
Old Town Music Hall
While taking a date to a movie may often seem like a last-ditch idea, that won't be the case at Old Town Music Hall. This quaint and kitschy theater, built in 1921, gives the audience a nostalgic movie experience that will surely get you a good night's kiss of appreciation. The hall offers both silent films and "talkies" along with Wurlitzer organ playing by a professional organist who doubles as the hall's owner. Even if the movie itself does not enthrall your date, the experience will. The audience is encouraged to sing before the show and ends up laughing together throughout. The ornate, historical decor will also wow most folks, unless your date is a total dud.
Old Town Music Hall
140 Richmond St
El Segundo, CA 90245
Tel: (310) 322-2592
otmh.org
Bicycling
Los Angeles and bicycling are a perfect fit, and the experience can be even more perfect when you do it on a date. The city has a host of bicycle paths from which to choose, ranging from the seaside to the centrally located, the neighborhood to the rough terrain. One bike ride that put you in the heart of the L.A. scene is the 22-mile path that stretches from the Pacific Palisades to Torrance along the waterfront. This takes you through Santa Monica and Venice, two areas that epitomize L.A. A romantic waterside ride can be yours on the Bolsa Chica path in Orange County, which runs along Huntington beach with a dashing view of the ocean. Bolsa Chica is about 35 miles outside of downtown L.A., so it also gets you away from congestion and noise. If you and your date are up for a bit of an adventure, you can check out the West Fork path in Angeles National Forest. While it's surrounded by rugged terrain, the path itself is fully paved and, for the most part, a fairly breezy ride. Check out a host of other bicycle paths for one that suits your fancy on the bike map in Resources below.
Los Angeles County Museum of Art
This large and luscious museum has enough different attractions to suit any number of tastes. Permanent collections range from African to Chinese, with ancient Near East complemented by a host of contemporary art. The bold, brash works of German Expressionism make for some great conversation, as will the gorgeous Egyptian coffins. If standing around looking at art is not enthralling enough for you or your date, you can always check out one of the museum's films, lectures or music programs, like Friday Night Jazz featured 6 to 8 p.m. every week from April to November. One more plus is the museum's entrance fee, with a special "pay what you wish" after 5 p.m.
Los Angeles County Museum of Art
5905 Wilshire Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90036
Tel: (323) 857-6000
lacma.org
Resources
About the Author:
Ryn Gargulinski is a writer, artist and performer with more than 20 years experience. Her writing and art have appeared in numerous publications and include two illustrated humor books. A recipient of the 2007 Don Schellie award for best feature column in Arizona, she holds a B.F.A. and M.A. from Brooklyn College.
Photo Credits:
Photo by Ryn Gargulinski
